Pages

Monday, October 19, 2015

Runner Spotlight: Angie

Today I'm kicking off the week with my first Runner Spotlight interview and, wow, do we have an amazing first interviewee!

The Runner Spotlight is something new on my blog that came about because I love to meet new people and, of course, talk running. What better way to get to know other runners than to throw a bunch of questions at them!

Twice a month, a new runner will be featured on the Runner Spotlight. Through these interviews, we will meet and learn from runners of all distances, paces and food preferences.

-----

Let me introduce you to Angie.

She's a marathoner, ULTRA-marathoner, running coach and RN - along with being a wife and mom of 3. Angie and her husband, Trevor, have changed my life though they may not even realize it!

Back in 2010, I decided to run my first marathon on a whim. I had run a few 5k's and a 10k before but had no idea how to train for a full marathon. I found Angie and Trevor's podcasts on their website, the Marathon Training Academy, and found a training plan there as well.

With their coaching, I completed the marathon and actually liked it! So much that I am running marathon #7 next Spring. They are all about educating, inspiring and encouraging. It's awesome.

Enough of my talk, let's hear from Angie herself.

All About Running:

When did you start running? What spurred your interest?

I started running in high school because my best friend and I were always
trying to lose weight. I ran off and on during my teens and early 20's
but didn't get serious about long distance running until 2007.

When did you run your first race? What were your thoughts before/after?

I signed up for my first 5k during the fall of 2007 and was extremely
nervous. I was sure that everyone there would be able to tell that I
wasn't a "real" runner (whatever that is). I was pleasantly surprised to
find that there were lots of "normal" people there and I discovered that I
had a competitive side.

What is your favorite distance to race?

I ran my first marathon in April 2008 and fell in love with that
distance. That first marathon was a bit rough but I've gone on to run 35
marathons and 3 ultra-marathons as well as lots of shorter races.

Do you work with a coach or are you self-coached?

I'm self-coached and am actually a running coach myself (which may not be
the best combination). However, I'm self-motivated when it comes to
running and fitness activities so it has worked well up to this point.

What weekly mileage do you run during training on average?

I run anywhere from 25-60 miles depending on what I'm training for.

What do you think is the most important aspect of training for a
long-distance race?

It's very important to find that balance between doing easy and hard
runs. I find that many people tend to run most of their training runs too
fast which doesn't leave adequate time for recovery. Finding that balance
between running and focused cross training is also very important for
success in distance running.

What are your PRs?

I really haven't kept up with any PR's other than in the marathon. My
marathon PR is 3:35:41 (2012).

What has been your favorite race experience? Tell us a little about it!

I don't know if I could narrow it down to just one race...there have been
so many amazing race experiences. Some of the highlights include running
the Marine Corps Marathon in 2014 with my sister, qualifying for Boston at
the Foot Traffic Flat Marathon in 2014 and running the Boston Marathon in
2015.

What is your favorite post-race treat?

I am always super hungry post race so food tastes amazing. Having a good
burger, fries and ice cream has to rank right up there in my favorite
post-marathon foods.

Personal/Family Life Balance:

How many kids do you have? How old are they?

We have three boys ages 11, 8 and 5.

Is your family interested in running as well?

My husband is also a runner but my kids really haven't developed a love
of running (yet). They enjoy going to races with us and the older two
have participated in a 5k and some kid's races.

How do you balance family time, daily responsibilities and training?

I do my running early in the morning, usually before anyone else is up so
that most of my training is "invisible." I find that running and fitness
in general makes me a more energetic and positive person so that
definitely benefits my family. But I also go to bed early so that I can
get up easier in the morning.

When do you fit running/training into your day?

Running happens early in
the morning so that I can get back home and get the kids ready for school.
I do fit in strength training and yoga classes during the week at times
that work well with my schedule.

What advice would you give to new runners and/or parents trying to
balance running and family life?

It's all about finding a routine that works well for you and that may end
up changing over time. In general, most people find that running in the
morning is the best way to avoid it getting pushed aside for other things.
But don't feel guilty about taking time for yourself to exercise. It's
going to make you a healthier person both physically and in your
relationships.

Thank you, Angie, for taking the time to talk with us and for inspiring so many to take on their first marathon. If you want to check a ND or MN marathon off your "50 state quest", you are always welcome in our neck of the woods - seriously!

I do struggle with feeling guilty for working out or going out for a run while my family is awake... I'm thankful Angie covered that! Fitting in some exercise does give me that extra patience and energy - I think it makes me a better mom and wife :)

What a stud! And, I love that you're doing interviews twice a month. I think it's such a great way to inspire and be inspired! My first 5k was in 2007 too! CRAZY. Though, those distances def aren't on my bucket list. Haha. I like to keep my runs 5 miles or less. : ) It's great to see how a mom can balance everything. #inspired #fitfamlove #thefitdish